Cover for Russell E. Wyche's Obituary

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Russell E.

Russell E. Wyche Profile Photo

Wyche

d. Mar 8, 2026

Obituary

Russell E. Wyche, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend, peacefully transitioned on March 8, 2026. He was born on April 13, 1953, in Jarratt, Virginia and made his home in Hampton, Virginia, where he proudly raised his family, with a life centered around service, hard work, and love.

Russell graduated from Central High School in Sussex County, Virginia in 1971. Shortly after, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. During his distinguished military career, he rose to the respected role of Drill Sergeant, shaping and mentoring countless soldiers.

Russell proudly served his nation for 20 years and was deployed during Operation Desert Storm and Somalia, where he courageously defended the freedom of the United States. His commitment and excellence earned him numerous honors, including the Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and Bar, Saudi Liberation Medal, Kuwaiti Liberation Medal, and the Expert Marksmanship Badge. After two decades of military service, he retired from the Army at Fort Eustis, Virginia in 1997.

Following his military retirement, Russell pursued his passion for the open road. He became an owner-operator, proudly running his own company, R.E. Wyche Trucking. Driving wasn’t just a profession for him, it was a passion he truly loved.

Outside of work, Russell enjoyed the thrill and camaraderie of the car community. He was an avid and proud member of the Tidewater Corvette Club, where he shared his love for Corvettes and built lasting friendships.

Russell will be remembered for his strength, discipline, sense of pride, and deep love for his family. His legacy of service, hard work, and dedication will live on through the many lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas O. Wyche; mother, Rosa B. Wyche; and sister, Phyllis Hurt.

He leaves to cherish his memory, a loving wife, Dorothy Wyche; sons, Aaron Wyche of Chesterfield, VA; Eric Tanksley (Naimah) of Upper Marlboro, MD; and Russell Wyche Jr. (Monique) of Atlanta, GA. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Zykeira Neal, Corday Wyche, Kadir Wyche, Ayana Wyche, Nova Wyche, Cruz Wyche and Erykah Tanksley.

Russell was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Amiyah Leslie, Avery Leslie III, and Jordyn Wyche. He is further survived by 3 brothers; Earl, Mitchell, and Gerry Wyche, along with 2 nieces, a nephew, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

“A life of service, strength, and love never truly ends.  Though he now rests in eternal peace, the lessons he taught, the love he gave, and the legacy he built will continue to guide and inspire generations to come.”

Viewing will be held from 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel. A Celebration of Life service will be held 12 Noon, Thursday, March 19, 2026 at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel. Interment will be in Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery. 

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.
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Funeral Services

Viewing

March
18

Wednesday

Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel & Crematory (Downtown)

1601 27th Street, Newport News, VA 23607

11:00 am - 5:00 pm

Celebration of Life

March
19

Thursday

Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel & Crematory (Downtown)

1601 27th Street, Newport News, VA 23607

Starts at 12:00 pm

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